Fire investigators are looking into suspected arson after a blaze severely damaged six family homes on Gorleston Road in Highters Heath, Birmingham, on Thursday, August 13. The fire, which broke out opposite Daisy Farm Park, near the Maypole, caused no casualties but has left residents devastated.
Fire spread from rear fences into homes
Billesley station commander Peter Simmons told BirminghamLive reporter Harry Leach that crews were mobilised at about 5.20pm. “It started initially at the rear of the buildings, along the fences by the field and spread along the back fences into people's gardens and then ultimately into people's houses,” he said.
The fire affected around six houses, and residents have suggested it may have been started deliberately. Mr Simmons confirmed that fire investigators were requested, but they were extremely busy and only arriving on the morning of August 14.
Residents suspect deliberate ignition
“Residents have suggested that they thought it was arson, or that the fire started at the back of the properties, they believe that it was deliberate ignition along there,” Mr Simmons said. When asked if it was suspected arson, he replied: “Suspected but I can't really tell at the moment because at the rear of the properties, there are a run of about 10 houses where the fences and the gardens are all destroyed.”
He added that proper fire investigators, potentially with a fire dog, would be needed to investigate the scene where the fire is believed to have started.
Community support and ongoing response
Fire crews are expected to remain on Gorleston Road for most of the day, damping down and checking for hot spots. Birmingham City Council's structural engineers are also expected to visit the buildings.
A GoFundMe page has been set up for affected residents, and the community has raised more than £8,000 in just 18 hours. Mr Simmons offered advice during the extreme heatwave: “The advice to people at the moment is don't have barbecues, don't start fires, be vigilant. If you see anything, call the fire service immediately.”
